Ever since contemporary Christian music (CCM) came of age in the mid-1990s, I’ve been more than a casual fan. This is for a couple of reasons: 1) I like a lot of it; and 2) I’m always listening for songs that will work in church.
So in no particular order, here are some of my favorites. I’m including both those that you only listen to and those that are transformed into praise & worship favorites at Good Shepherd and elsewhere.
The list is somewhat stacked towards older CCM. Sadly, as our local CCM station has gone overboard with their “family friendly” ads, I ache for the single people who are listening. Is the station not for them? As a result — and because I love listening to Colin Cowherd — I’m not as familiar with newer CCM radio hits as I once was.
Love Song For A Savior by Jars Of Clay. Simple, haunting, and unforgettable. From the first album which still merits frequent listening.
Jesus Freak by dcTalk. A little U2. A little Nirvana. A lot of swagger.
Let Us Pray by Steven Curtis Chapman. Steven Curtis Chapman? Yeah. Great memories of getting “edgy” at Mt. Carmel and having my friend Chris Hartis sing this song . . . better than it was on the original.
He Reigns by the Newsboys. I love it when we sing this at Good Shepherd. The first notes and then the closing anthem do more for my adrenaline than any other song.
Wholly Yours by David Crowder. So clever and profound with his lyrics. Why doesn’t he get more run on our “family friendly” station?
Sing To The King by New Life Worship. See above comments about He Reigns. Especially when April Geiger leads us in declaring ” . . . when Satan is vanquished and my Jesus is King!” Enjoy the YouTube link featuring a U2 intro.
Say So by Israel Houghton. Chris Macedo and John Pavlovitz both told me this would be the next Good Shepherd anthem before I even heard it. As usual, they were right.
What are some of yours?